LONG POST ALERT
What a difference a year makes…
Today marks one year since my hospitalization, and it’s a story of how ancestors can guide and move things on your behalf.
A year ago today, I was scheduled to fly to Atlanta for the second phase of my Tantric Shaman training. It was an unusual day because, unlike the norm, my mom, Bronnie Brooks, was taking me to the airport instead of my dad, John Brooks. I wasn’t feeling my best and had considered delaying my trip, but I pushed through.
My bags were packed, and my dad had placed them by the door for easy access when my mom arrived. I was struggling with my breathing and took longer than usual to get ready. By the time my mom arrived, my dad and stepmother had already left, so I didn’t get to see them.
Once we were in the car, I asked my mom to stop at the ATM so I could withdraw some money to tip the wheelchair attendants who’d be helping me at the airport. She had suggested I request assistance since I’d mentioned needing help during my recent trip to Indianapolis. My mom had already tried to talk me out of going, but I was determined to complete this training after working hard for two years.
At the ATM, I realized I didn’t have my wallet. This was strange, as I have a meticulous travel routine to avoid forgetting anything. We had to return home to get it, and I knew we’d be running late. On the drive back, I casually mentioned that I had considered canceling my trip. That’s when my mom broke down and said, “I want you to cancel this trip. If you do, we’re going to the doctor TODAY to find out what’s going on. But you’re grown, and I’ll do what you want—just know, it’ll be under duress.”
Being her only child, it was hard to say “No” because I knew if anything happened to me while I was away, it would weigh heavily on her…and my village.
Back at the house, my dad had returned, and I told him about forgetting my wallet. He went inside to get it for me. While he and my mom talked, I called my Tantric Shaman facilitator, Maisha Najuma Aza, and told her I was going to the doctor to figure out what was wrong. She said she’d had a feeling to cancel the session and told me to focus on getting well.
After that, my mom and I made two stops before heading to the Emergency Room at University of Maryland Capital Region. I had tried to convince her to wait until my doctor’s appointment in a few days, but she was adamant—no delays. When we got to the hospital, she dropped me off, and I went inside to explain my symptoms. I didn’t expect it, but I was admitted and kept for 12 days. During my stay, I was diagnosed with Pulmonary Arterial Disease (PAD). My condition was caused by my weight putting pressure on my heart, leading to swelling in my legs and shortness of breath. Though chronic, it’s manageable with weight management and a healthcare plan.
On her heavenly birthday, my ancestor, Kay Frances Joyner, moved through my mother, Bronnie, to make sure her grandchild, Tynisha, got the medical attention my mom had been praying for behind closed doors. This day already belonged to my grandmother, and now it’s also the day that changed my life.
I’m eternally grateful for every thought, prayer, and word of encouragement I’ve received over the past year. Since then, I’ve lost over 100 pounds, maintained an exercise and wellness routine, and officially became a Tantric Shaman—among other accomplishments.
There hasn’t been a moment when I didn’t feel the love and support of my village. Thank you all for being on this journey with me.
